It has been fun to watch the relationship develop between my dad and my kids. Grandpop has, over the years, been in the somewhat unusual position of primary daytime caretaker for two small kids for extended periods. Three weeks before Christmas this year he dragged his 78 year-old body through total body scanners, chaotic airports, and crowded airplanes to visit and help take care of the kids.
In years past my daughter, who is quite the firebrand, has given him fits thought the opposite is true too. It’s been secretly fun to watch their conflicts. My daughter always seems a bit flummoxed by Grandpop’s quietly solid disciplinary technique. Lets just say that she’s not entirely used to limits. This year was a little different; my girl has matured and softened a bit. Who knows, maybe Grandpop has bent a little bit as well. Whatever the case it was touching to see them spend some warm moments together like this little stroll in the rain. One thing is certain, they’ve each left a lasting impression on the other and both are better for it.
52 Comments
Such a wonderful sweet image…a one that you’ll cherish and treasure. Such a special relationship captured!!! Wishing you and yours all the best. A belated merry..merry!!!
Thanks so much Marcie–the scene definitely warms my heart. Merry Christmas to you too!
Now that’s a photo! Bravo!
Many thanks Christine!
Great use of the surrounding architecture to frame the image. Nice shot!
Thanks d.k.! Appreciate that!
Oh that’s so sweet and so true. My kids are the same with my father and I too think they are better for it.
Thanks Sheila–my folks are often mentioning how pleasantly surprised they’ve been by grandparenthood. The bond they have with the kids is so very deep.
perfect equilibrium, very lovely photo full of good feeling and beautiful moment captured, compliments
Many thanks Fabrizio!
jolie scène, et beau noir et blanc.
Salut Marie! Merci beaucoup pour le commentaire et de visiter mon site!
Nice shot! I need to do more black and white.
Thanks Francis!
Very nicely framed image and a wonderful story.
Thank you Kala!
Love this shot!
Hi Lena! Thanks for the comment and for stopping by!
A beautiful picture with great detail.
Meeting generational success …
Merci beaucoup RDL!
lovely shot!
Thanks yz–appreciate that!
that’s a fantastic street capture, loved it
Many thanks Krunal!
Great pictue that captures such a special moment.
Thanks so much Jackie! I’m really glad you dropped by!
A fine portrait. One worth framing in my opinion.
Thanks so much Sherri–really appreciate that!
Thanks for the great photo and the thought-provoking commentary. I can tell you from personal experience that being a grandparent really IS different from being a Mom or Dad. The mellowing and wisdom that has come from thinking about our own child-rearing days begins to set in. Then, with the grandkids, we have the second hope of getting it “right.” Family bonds can be quite forgiving, flexible, and rewarding and each type (for each person and each role) is critical. Somehow, the good attempts seem to work pretty well…and the love just grows from there. Nice work, Christopher. PS: Please forgive the wordiness, but you touched a spark in me!
Thanks so much for the comment Phil–no need to apoligize! I really appreciate your perspective here. I definitely get the sense from my parents that what you describe is entirely their experience as well. We’re really grateful for their role and for the impact they’ve had on our kids. If only we could see them more.
Thanks again Phil!
Like half-circles of love as arches for them to pass time, what a tender generation feel.
Thank you so much k@–I really appreciate that! The arches also gave me the feel of encompassing love and the passage of time!
First of all, gorgeous picture. I love what you do with B&W. Secondly, since we’ve been back east for the holidays I can honestly say that watching Ezra with my parents has been the BEST gift. It is such a joy to watch this intergenerational connection. Love this story and picture and feeling.
Thank you so much Corinna! I feel exactly the same way. Watching my kids interact with my folks and seeing first hand the joy they all feel is perhaps the best feeling ever! Cheers!
Nice thoughts Chris – I’m looking forward to forefilling the same function as your dad, so I can emphasise with him. Hope that Christmas was great for you – and that you really enjoyed your childrens toys (why else do we buy them?)
…And back to pictures. Nice one – really like the semi-circular architcture.
I’m excited for you George! If my parents are a decent barometer you’ve got some fun and exciting days ahead! Thanks so much George and Happy New Year!
really like the mood of this shot. nice work and happy new year.
Thanks so much Faisal and same to you!
A great rainy scene and touching photograph. I like the quality of the black and white and of course the reflections of the wet sidewalks.
All the best for 2011 to you and your family.
Thanks so much Bluechameleon and best to you and yours for 2011 as well!
A wonderful moment with such thoughtful reflection. Very nice.
Thanks so much Mike! I really appreciate the comment and visit!
Wonderful shot.
Thanks so much for the comment and visit Martin!
Such a warm image Chris. It feels like an actual mental picture. What a great moment you’ve captured.
Thanks much Mike!
lovely b&w and great composition. the image is quite precious.
Thank you Charles!
Grandpoop – what a great name! A lovely shot that no doubt will be treasured dearly
Thanks Gemma! My son coined the name when he was a baby.
Great timing and nice composition. BW is very effective here.
Thanks much Pau!